For many of us, however, moisturizing our own skin is often overlooked, especially when it comes to those pesky, hard-to-reach places such as your back.

During those times where you don't have the luxury of grabbing assistance in the process, we've compiled a tutorial to offer the guidance you need on how to apply lotion to your own back.

Method 1: The Finger/Palm Medley

The first and most common method is ideal for those who are flexible and limber as it requires the use of both arms. It is the method most people first think of when thinking of how to apply lotion to your own back, as it involves the least amount of extra materials.

Step 1

To begin, squeeze a generous amount of lotion onto both hands and rub your hands together, making sure that all fingertips are equally covered. With whichever arm you feel is most flexible, reach behind your head in the same movement you would use if you were clapping your hands behind your back. Simultaneously, reach the other arm behind your back with your palms facing your back.

Step 2

Once you feel your fingertips touch, then you’d know you have the full range of your back, and you can begin to moisturize the skin. Try to stretch your fingers as much as possible as this will give you a wider range of application and ensure that the lotion is applied evenly.

Step 3

Move your palms and fingers in circular motions as you moisturize. Feel free to repeat this process as many times as is necessary for the entire back to be covered.

Method 2: The Forearm Reacharound

The second most popular method when it comes to applying lotion to your own back is similar to the first one we mentioned. This time, though, instead of your palms and fingers, you will be using your forearms.

Step 1

Begin by applying a liberal amount of lotion in a line running up the top side of both of your forearms. For this one, do not rub the lotion in, but instead, leave the line intact.

Step 2

Position your forearms behind your back, making sure that the part of your forearms where the lotion is placed is facing your back. We suggest positioning your most flexible arm above the other arm as it will be this arm that will be reaching the most difficult spots.

Step 3

When you feel comfortable with where your arms are placed, begin working your arms in circular motions to allow the lotion to sink into your skin. If the circular motion does not feel like it is getting the job done, switch your movement to a more linear one with your top arm moving upwards and your bottom hand moving downward in order to cover the lower parts of your back.

Again, even distribution is important so feel free to repeat the process as many times as is necessary. You can also alternate arms to get a different angle when applying the lotion.

Method 3: The Spatula Spread

The third method is only slightly more complex as it involves utilizing a common household item: the spatula. However, if you do not have a spatula, anything with similar dimensions will do the trick! It is important to consider and inspect the condition of your spatula in addition to what your spatula is made out of.

The biggest consideration will be to make sure that the handle of your spatula is long enough to reach your entire back. If your spatula is wooden, be sure it is free of splinters or any stray wood that has the potential to break free and scratch your back. Metal spatulas do not provide the amount of spreadability as wooden or plastic spatulas, so if at all possible, try to stick to either wooden or plastic.

One last thing to consider is whether or not your spatula is frequently used for cooking. While it is possible to thoroughly wash your spatula and ensure it is safe for cooking when you finish applying your lotion, it is advisable to have a separate lotion application spatula to avoid the risk of cross-contamination.

Step 1

Now that you have your spatula of choice in hand, apply a good size glob of lotion to the flat part of the spatula.

Step 2

Reach it behind your back and begin, in circular motions, rubbing the lotion in, once again ensuring that it is distributed evenly.

Step 3

Once you have an even coat, you can work the spatula around as you would when using it to cook. This is to allow the lotion to sink in fully.

Conclusion

Remember: there is no wrong method when it comes to how to apply lotion to your own back. It is an awkward and sometimes difficult process, which might take a few different approaches to find one you are fully comfortable with.

These three methods offer a wide range of potential that should fit all levels of flexibility and only require regular household items. With a little practice, even the least flexible person should be able to master the art of putting lotion on his or her back.

Maintaining moisturized skin is not only a pleasurable experience but is also a healthy lifestyle habit to get in to. Taking care of your skin by keeping it moisturized can minimize the effects that daily pressures have on your skin and will keep you looking and feeling youthful for longer!